Have you ever noticed how some of the biggest surprises come in the most unexpected of packages? Take Crazy Burger Cafe in Rhode Island as an example. It doesn’t boast bells and whistles to convince you walk through the front door. (However, it does sport a really colorful, creative exterior.) Instead, it relies on an impressive menu, a cozy atmosphere, and word of mouth. Once you try on its burgers, you’ll probably sing this no-fuss hideaway’s praises too.
If you love a good burger, you can’t miss at Crazy Burger Café and Juice Bar in Narragansett, a no-fussy eatery that’s been called by some the best hole-in-the-wall burger joint in Rhode Island.
However, you really do have to try it for yourself, and your taste buds will certainly thank you. You’ll just have to decide which burger, out of more than a dozen, you want to try.
You can, of course, get the classic burger or cheeseburger. But if you’re more adventurous, you might want to try such flavorful options as the Mahi Mahi taco burger, the Goofy Gorgonzola burger, or the Freaky Fajita burger.
Yep, each burger sports a lighthearted moniker, and you’re sure to find the perfect one to satisfy your craving. The Moo Moo Melt’s a classic patty melt while the Mumbai Turkey is perfect for turkey fans.
You can’t have a burger on its own, can you? Well, you can, but why would you when Crazy Burger dishes up such fun sides as a bowl of pickles, roasted veggies, and classic fries?
Crazy Burger also serves a selection of breakfasts, salads, and soups. Since it’s also a juice bar, treat yourself to a glass of fresh juice, a smoothie, or lemonade.
Have you been to Crazy Burger Café in Rhode Island? What’s your favorite burger on the menu? Let us know in the comments! Next time you’re craving some good, old-fashioned barbecue, visit Becky’s BBQ in Middletown, a cozy hole-in-the-wall.
Most major cities in the United States are home to at least one famous food market, but there are many smaller, under-the-radar food halls and markets across the United States just waiting to be explored.
Not only do food markets allow you to indulge in the local cuisine and try new things, but these markets are often historic pieces of their city’s history, housed in buildings with unique architectural styles, and offer a glimpse into a city’s rich culture and sense of community.
One of my new favorites, Cross Street Market, is nestled in Baltimore, Maryland’s Federal Hill Neighborhood. Though not nearly as well known as Baltimore’s famous Lexington Market, Cross Street Market is perhaps just as charming. Established in the mid-1800s, Cross Street Market has served south Baltimore for more than 150 years. The current 31,800-square-foot structure dates back only to 1952 and is home to 22 independently owned and operated businesses.
From ramen and burger shops to a butcher and confectionary, the thoughtfully curated mix of vendors has established Cross Street Market as a quintessential destination for regional cuisine.
In our last week in Maryland, just days before we moved across the world, my partner and I found ourselves in Baltimore to ship our car. After we dropped our car off, we made our way to one of our favorite neighborhoods, Federal Hill, for brunch.
We passed by Cross Street Market, and instead of making our way to our chosen destination, I asked if we could consider changing our plans. I’ve long wanted to visit Cross Street Market but never made the time to go – this was perhaps my last chance. It was late morning on a Tuesday, and while many of the food vendors were closed, there was a delicious variety of shops to choose from.
We settled on a carmelized apple and vanilla creme crepe from Crepe Crazy, as well as a beef and lamb gyro from Gyroll Shawarma stuffed to the brim with tasty vegetables, meat, and their signature sauces. Both dishes were phenomenal, and the individuals working the booths couldn’t have been more warm and welcoming – I was especially delighted to learn that Crepe Crazy is a deaf-owned business. On our way out, we had to grab iced lattes from Ceremony Coffee Roasters.
While this detour provided exactly what it was designed to do – provide sustenance and enjoy a day date with my partner – it also helped me connect with my new home in a more meaningful way before I even boarded the plane.
You see, I recently moved from the suburbs of Baltimore, Maryland, to the suburbs of Seoul, South Korea. Thanks to my experience in similar American establishments, I feel comfortable in the city’s food markets, picking up sushi, summer rolls, and pastries with relative ease — despite the language barrier (I’m attempting to learn Korean, but it is an incredibly difficult language).
Though you likely won’t find crepes and gyros in the basements of South Korean baék hwa jŏms — or department stores like the one pictured above — these food markets make me feel at home in a foreign country while still allowing me to explore my new surroundings. It's less intimidating than entering an unknown shop and allows us to immerse ourselves in the local culture.
Of course, since Only In Your State is an American-based travel website, I want to recommend Maryland’s Cross Street Market personally, but more broadly, I want to encourage everyone to explore local food markets, whether in their hometown or across the country (or even the world, in my case).
The food hall is an international experience integral to a place's culture and community; if you want to get a true sense of a city while visiting, add the local food hall to your itinerary. Whether you are looking to support local businesses, try a new international dish, or stock up on pastries and produce, there’s something for everyone at their local food market.
Are you looking for a hearty, homestyle breakfast on the Oregon Coast? If so, head to Arnie's Cafe in Warrenton. This classic breakfast spot serves all the classic menu items you crave in the morning, from pancakes and bacon to eggs and potatoes. This adorable eatery has a friendly, casual vibe, ample portions, and a winning array of dishes.
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This unassuming local favorite eatery serves up delicious breakfast and lunch dishes.
To place an order or for more information about this hidden gem in Oregon, visit the Astoria Warrenton Chamber of Commerce Arnie's Cafe webpage. If your visit to this Southeast Portland burrito stand includes a drive, you may want to stock up on car-friendly snacks for the drive there—but be sure to save room for your breakfast!
Have you eaten at Arnie's Cafe? We'd love to know how you enjoyed your meal, so please leave a comment to let us know about your experience. Also, feel free to share your favorite off-the-beaten-path breakfast spots on the Oregon Coast we should check out next.
